Vagharshapat - Hriphsime’

Built in 618 by Catholicos Komitas. It represents a notable development compared with the example of Avan. The four circular side rooms leading into the corner squares take a more active part in the square central core covered by a large dome. Exceptional is the solution of the fan-shaped corner squinches at the springing of the dome, which brilliantly overcome the difficulty of connecting surfaces of different curvature. The exterior is hollowed out by the typical triangular niches, which serve to lighten the structure - the bell-tower porch is of the 17th century. The complex is enclosed by a fortified wall with corner towers.